Travel to Japan Doesn't Have to Be Expensive

If you've often thought of visiting Japan but haven't because you thought you couldn't afford it, here's some advice: GO! It's not that expensive. It's really the same as most any other country. If you stay in regular hotels and eat in fancy restaurants, then yeah, it's expensive. But if you do that in America or Europe the price will be about the same. Here are some tips for how to visit Japan without breaking the bank.

First of all, there are a lot of cheap flights to and from Japan so if you're doing a round the world trip, it's a great country to include. One way tickets are also good value; often being simply half the price of a return ticket.

Once you're at the airport you might feel a little overwhelmed by the 'lack of English' and trying to read Japanese, but really, all you need is in English and once you get through customs, head over to the information desk, get a free map and get them to point you in the direction of the train.

There are several ways to get into Tokyo from the airport. If you're taking a taxi, then you don't need to read this because you're obviously not on a budget, and you probably own the bank! The direct train and direct bus are about $30 but if you take the regular train it's about half the price. People may tell you that it's too hard to take the regular train because there's no English, but it's not true. There is English, you've got your free map, and you can always ask someone. Sure, their English will be very, very limited, but you'll manage.

Before you arrive, it's best to arrange your accommodation and if you're on a budget and want to see 'real Japan' then look on the internet for 'guest house Japan/Tokyo' and you'll find a wide array of choices. It's a superb option and where I stayed it was only $12 a night (2008).

If you're staying at a guest house there will also be a shared kitchen area so you can buy groceries from the local supermarket where prices are not much different than anywhere. Some foods you're used to may be expensive but other more local fare will be cheaper. You'll also be amazed at the wide array of fresh produce that you've never seen before.

And there's no need to be a miser and never eat out. There's a fantastic variety of really cool little eateries where you can get a great feed for 6 or 7 dollars.

The trains are an excellent and easy way to get around, but the best option of all is a bicycle. Tokyo is a fantastic, liveable city where getting around on a bike is very common and very, very enjoyable.